‘Ljieli Teatrali’: Maltese Plays Get a Second Life on the Silver Screen

Picture this: the grand façade of the Manoel Theatre, Malta’s national theatre, looming large on the big screen. This isn’t a dream sequence, but a reality thanks to ‘Ljieli Teatrali’, a unique project breathing new life into Maltese plays. In an age where digital platforms reign supreme, this initiative is a refreshing nod to our theatrical heritage.

Reviving Malta’s Theatrical Past

‘Ljieli Teatrali’ is the brainchild of Teatru Malta, the national theatre organisation. The project aims to digitise and showcase Maltese plays, making them accessible to a wider audience. The first play to grace the big screen was ‘L-Għannejja’ (The Shepherds), a classic by Maltese playwrights Francis Ebejer and Joe Friggieri. The film was premiered at the Eden Cinema in St. Julian’s, transforming the multiplex into a temporary theatre.

“We wanted to bring theatre to the people,” explains Sean Buhagiar, Artistic Director at Teatru Malta. “Not everyone can make it to the theatre, but everyone can go to the cinema. ‘Ljieli Teatrali’ is about democratising theatre.”

From Stage to Screen: A New Challenge

Adapting a stage play for the screen is no easy feat. The intimate nature of theatre, with its live performances and close proximity to the audience, had to be translated into a cinematic experience. “It was a challenge,” admits Buhagiar. “But it was also an opportunity to explore new ways of storytelling.”

The team behind ‘L-Għannejja’ worked tirelessly to capture the essence of the play while utilising the unique advantages of film. Close-ups, camera angles, and editing techniques were employed to enhance the narrative and engage the audience in a way that’s different from a live performance.

Future Shows and How to Watch

‘L-Għannejja’ is just the beginning. Teatru Malta plans to digitise more Maltese plays, with the next in line being ‘Il-Gudda’ (The Village) by Ġanni Bonici. The organisation is also open to suggestions from the public. “If there’s a play you’d like to see on the big screen, let us know,” says Buhagiar.

So, how can you catch these cinematic plays? Keep an eye on Teatru Malta’s social media pages and website for announcements. Screenings will be held at various cinemas across Malta, with tickets priced affordably to ensure accessibility.

As for the future of ‘Ljieli Teatrali’, Buhagiar is optimistic. “We hope this project will inspire a new generation of theatre-goers. And who knows? Maybe one day, we’ll see Maltese plays screening in cinemas abroad.”

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“‘Ljieli Teatrali’ is about more than just reviving old plays. It’s about preserving our cultural heritage and making it relevant to today’s audiences.” – Sean Buhagiar, Artistic Director, Teatru Malta

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